Following on from its launch in the Japanese domestic market, Suzuki Motor Corporation unveiled the Swift for Europe at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show as its all new global compact supermini and it has now been facelifted for 2021 with an enhanced 1.2-litre engine and hybrid as standard as well as further standard equipment updates.
In addition to its stylish exterior design in a compact size of just 3,845mm long, the Swift features excellent visibility, a spacious cabin and ample luggage space.
Standard equipment for all models in the range is even more comprehensive than before and the new SZ-L model includes air conditioning, rear view camera, Radar Brake Support with Adaptive Cruise Control, smartphone link for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB radio, leather steering wheel, privacy glass, LED Headlamps, LED rear combination lamps, polished 16-inch alloy wheels and front electric windows.
The SZ-T adds grey painted 16-inch alloy wheels, Dual Sensor Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Weaving Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition and rear parking sensors.
SZ5 adds Navigation, 16-inch polished alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, keyless entry and start, telescopic steering wheel adjustment, rear electric windows and door mirror side turn indicators. Swift is available in one solid colour and six optional metallic colours with three dual tone colours incorporating a Black Pearl roof also available optionally.
Suzuki first introduced its 1.2-litre Dualjet technology (K12C) in 2014, this engine is now replaced by the new K12D Dualjet unit which offers greater fuel economy and even lower CO2 emissions. The maximum power output is 83PS with a torque figure of 107Nm at just 2,800rpm. Acceleration time to 62mph from 12.2 seconds.
Fuel efficiency is further enhanced when paired with the self-charging hybrid system powered by a new lithium-ion battery with capacity upgraded from 3Ah to 10Ah to improve energy recovery efficiency.
Available as standard equipment for all Swift models, the upgraded 12V Hybrid system is a compact and lightweight unit that incorporates an Integrated Starter Generator (known as ISG) which acts as both a generator and starter motor, the ISG is belt driven and assists the engine during vehicle take off and acceleration and also generates electricity through regenerative braking. In situations that require higher fuel use, such as when starting from a standstill or accelerating, the hybrid system helps suppress fuel consumption by providing electric motor assist using electricity generated through regenerative braking.
For the Swift with 2WD and manual transmission the Hybrid system helps Suzuki reach a CO2 emissions figure of just 111g/km (WLTP regulation) plus achieve a fuel consumption figure of 57.2mpg (WLTP) on the combined cycle.
Swift Sport Hybrid with 48V system and new K14D Boosterjet engine was introduced earlier in 2020 and is currently the only self-charging warm hatch model amongst its competitors.
Priced from £14,749 for SZ-L model.
